Russia and North Korea Strengthen Friendship with Goat Diplomacy

In a notable development reflecting the warming relations between Russia and North Korea, over 400 goats have been shipped from Russia to the isolated nation. North Korean state media reported that these goats are intended to ensure a steady supply of dairy products for children in the Nampo municipality. This shipment follows a strategic partnership treaty signed by North Korean leader Kim Jong-un and Russian President Vladimir Putin during Putin's visit to Pyongyang in June, marking his first trip to North Korea in over two decades. The shipment includes 432 non-pregnant female goats and 15 male goats, as confirmed by Russia's state veterinary service, Rosselkhoznadzor. This move comes at a time when nearly half of North Korea's population of 25.9 million faces food insecurity, with about 20% of children suffering from malnutrition-related growth issues. The goats are part of a broader initiative, as Russia had previously sent 30 grey thoroughbred horses to North Korea in 2022, catering to Kim's interest in equestrian activities. Historically, Russia and North Korea have maintained friendly relations since the Soviet era, but recent geopolitical dynamics have prompted Moscow to strengthen these ties further. Russian state media has framed this alliance as a counter to what it describes as "global imperialism" led by the United States. Additionally, there are reports of North Korea supplying artillery shells and missiles to Russia, highlighting the military dimension of their partnership. In a related context, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of utilizing a North Korean missile in a recent attack on Kyiv, which tragically resulted in civilian casualties, including the deaths of a father and his young son.